Ingrid Mainland

Professor Ingrid Mainland is a leading figure in zooarchaeology and environmental archaeology, affiliated with the Archaeology Institute at the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI). Her research focuses on human-animal relations, palaeodiet, and sustainability in North Atlantic island ecosystems, particularly in Scotland and Orkney. She holds roles as Curriculum Leader and Programme Leader for Archaeological Studies, teaching modules on Archaeological Sciences, Sustainability, and Research Communication.

Her academic qualifications include a Doctor of Philosophy from the University of Sheffield (1995). Key research projects include the 'Landscapes of Change' study on Rousay and the NSF-funded RIDIR project, which develops cyberinfrastructure for North Atlantic human ecodynamics research. She has also led investigations into Norse herding economies and Viking Age feasting practices.

Mainland is a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland and a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy. She has supervised numerous postgraduate students and contributed to initiatives promoting Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) within humanities curricula. Her work bridges archaeology, environmental science, and historical ecology, with a focus on resilience in island communities.

• Research Interests: Zooarchaeology, North Atlantic Studies, Sustainability, Human-Animal Interactions
• Fellowships: British Academy Mid-Career Fellowship (2014-2015), Senior Fellow HEA
• Publications: Over 20 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters, including work on dental microwear analysis and isotopic studies of ancient diets.